Dornob | Design Ideas Daily

Flemish Barn Renovation Brings New Life to Historic Village

Posted: 08 Aug 2013 10:00 AM PDT

flemish barn remodel

A Flemish barn in the countryside, built in the 1800s, was in desperate need of an update. It sits in a high-traffic area next to an historic farm site, and its crumbling appearance prompted the municipality to look for a way to bring it back to its former glory.

wide doors renovated flemish barn

An urban expansion is planned for the area, and part of the reason for the renovation was to strengthen the environment and quality in which the barn sits. The firm Arend Groenewegen Architect was called in to make the changes.

interior space renovated flemish barn

It was decided early on in the planning stages that the barn would be renovated into an office space. The space is segmented into two parts, meant to be used as a flexible office space that can be rented out.

exterior slats renovated flemish barn

It was important to the parties involved in the project that the re-invented structure be full of light, air and open space. The traditional black wooden slats on the building’s exterior allow in light and plenty of natural ventilation. The traditional thatched roof was completely restored to its historic beauty.

flemish barn stairs and slats

As much of the original structure as possible was left in place, with the floor, ceiling, roof, walls and foundation being entirely redone. A wooden cube occupies part of the ground-floor volume, housing the toilets, pantry, office and ventilation system. Underfloor heating keeps the barn looking sleek as it eliminates the need for radiators.

remodeled flemish barn lit from inside

The project was a huge success in the eyes of local residents. Several open houses and exhibitions have drawn in neighbors who appreciate the renewed beauty of the barn and the positive face it puts on the village.

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Four Simple Ways to Fold Your Sheets Picture Perfectly

Posted: 07 Aug 2013 04:00 PM PDT

how to fold bedsheets

If your linen closet is looking sad and messy, maybe it’s time to update your sheet-folding skills. According to The Complete Guide to Imperfect Homemaking, there are four simple techniques to fold your sheets to make them look as guest ready as the sheets in home decorating magazines.

folding bedsheets neatly

The simple-to-follow instructions all start out the same way: folding the fitted sheet into a neat little flat package. The top sheet is then folded in the same way. The difference between the four methods is only in the way the pillowcase is folded. You can make the sheet set look like a little gift waiting to be opened, or tuck the sheet set inside the pillowcase and fold it neatly.

orderly linen cabinet

Folding sheets neatly is a learned skill, so don’t be discouraged if they don’t look Martha Stewart perfect on the first try. However, perfection isn’t necessary – unless you really are Martha Stewart.